Zurich

Straddling the northernmost tip of Lake Zurich, Zurich is one of the most beloved cities in Switzerland. Today, you will be able to explore the city at leisure, perhaps taking in its delightful lakeside setting or frequenting one of its many charming cafés. Included is a restful one-night stay in Zurich.

This morning, enjoy a walking tour of Zurich before you are transferred to Lucerne, an area known for its spectacular natural setting. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore Lucerne, perhaps strolling down cobblestone streets in its colourful Altstadt. Included Excursion A guided tour of Zurich

The awe-inspiring natural beauty enveloping Lucerne is a true delight, and yours to discover today during a guided tour of this small city. Lucerne effortlessly reflects what most people imagine when they think of a Swiss city, with a backdrop of snow-capped mountain ranges and tree-lined boulevards cutting through the city centre. Enjoy learning about the history of Lucerne as you visit the well-preserved medieval Altstadt, Chapel Bridge and the octagonal Water Tower. Included Excursion A guided tour of Lucerne DiscoverMORE Train and cable car to Rigi - Weggis (extra expense)

This morning, journey by coach through idyllic landscapes as you carve a course to the Rhine-side town of Basel. When you arrive, you will be able to board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board. 

Today, as part of your incredible EmeraldPLUS programme, you will visit the city of Freiburg. Considered the Capital of the Black Forest, Freiburg has lovely sights that will amaze you. You’ll also have the opportunity to sample authentic Black Forest delicacies. If youre feeling more active, you can choose to join a guided bike tour in Breisach. EmeraldPLUS Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting  EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour in Breisach 

This morning, your Star-Ship will dock in Kehl, where you will be transferred across the river to Strasbourg, the capital of France’s Alsace Region. Cobbled squares surrounded by half-timbered houses make Strasbourg appear as if it has been effortlessly suspended in time, and you will get the opportunity to explore the past during your included walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Witness the ornate beauty of many of Strasbourg’s highlights, including the Maison Kammerzell and the canal network that weaves through Petite France, before enjoying free time to explore at leisure. Included Excursion Guided tour of Strasbourg

Relax on board this morning as you sail towards Ludwigshafen, following the meandering Rhine River and passing the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar. Travel by coach to Heidelberg, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about how it became a UNESCO City of Literature, having inspired the likes of Mark Twain and William Turner with its historical setting.  Your guided tour of the town will allow you to find your own inspiration among its delightful landmarks, including Heidelberg Castle, one of the most impressive Renaissance ruins in all of Europe. Alternatively, revel in a hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg.  Included Excursion Guided tour of Heidelberg EmeraldACTIVE Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg

Cruise to the 2,000-year-old town of Koblenz today and discover its fairy tale-like surrounds, nestled on the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Your local guide will tour you through the Roman town, touching on the twin-towered façade of the Church of Our Lady and the German Corner, where the two inspirational waterways meet. Journey by cable car to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, where you’ll find exceptional views of the surrounding area from its hilltop position. And tonight, our EmeraldPLUS invites you to join a magical private evening concert.  Included Excursion Walking tour of Koblenz & a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress EmeraldPLUS Private Evening concert on the Rhine DiscoverMORE Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)

Effortlessly steeped in history and tales of the past, Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany, encapsulating a timeline that spans more than two millennia. Your included city tour will take you to the heart of its Old Town.  Included Excursion Guided tour of Colognes Old Town

This morning, you can choose to embark on a guided bike tour to Waterland, learning about how the water is reclaiming Holland as you pass through quintessential Dutch surrounds and witness traditional villages and windmills. Alternatively, take to Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal network during a glass-top canal cruise, passing Roman patrician houses and ornate merchant houses that tell tales of the prosperous Dutch Golden Age.   Included Excursion Canal cruise EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to Waterland DiscoverMORE Private hidden Gems tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)

After breakfast, its time to say farewell to your Star-Ship and fellow guests and disembark for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the Black Forest and charming Strasbourg with you.   This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.